As I combed through years and years of couture I felt myself feeling more confident that I would find what I was looking for. All of a sudden I looked up at what seemed to be the only dress hanging on the wall. I pointed up and said, “what’s this”, but before I could finish Alan co-owner of Alan & Suzi said, “Oh, that’s a one of a kind, you have to try it on”. I was drawn to the pearl and crimson lines which wrapped around the entire dress like a serpent. I immediately asked for it to be taken down and headed towards the cramped fitting room located at the back of the store.

As I slipped it on it felt silky smooth on my skin and fit like paint. Little did that I know I was actually wearing paint! As I adjusted myself in front of the mirror Alan told me the piece was actually designed by a New York based artist that created wearable art. I was so intrigued and needed to learn more. So after the wedding and countless compliments I reached out to the designer and proposed to have a short interview with Zuzanna Kozlowska. She agreed! So I thought it would be a treat to share it with all of you.

​I hope you enjoy! -xoxo

Zuzanna (aka Zuz) Kozlowska

Zuz & her partner Bashi at Tesla Showroom in Chelsea, NYC

Q: Where are you from?I was born in Poland and grew up just outside Krakow. When I turned 10, my family immigrated to Melbourne Australia, where I spent my teen years. I went to high-school and began University there. ​

Q: When did you know you wanted to become an artist?I was always drawing and creating things either alone, or with my friends and family, but I officially made the choice in 10th grade. In Australia, teens are required to choose their subjects for 11th &12th grade, which then dictates their university choices. Of course mine were all in the arts. ​

Q: How did your art segway into fashion design?Fashion and fabrics were always part of my life. In Poland, my mother was a fashion designer and my family operated the production business for her label. Even though I was never really interested in fashion, my mother and I were always selecting fabrics and creating designs together. It wasn't until I had been drawing and painting for about 12 years that I discovered my unique visual style. I wanted to show it to the world. Timing had it that I was attending a Gala at the Guggenheim, so I took out one of my mother's dresses and painted it. Needless to say, I have been in love with the process ever since. ​

Hand painted silk dress

Q: Who are some of your favorite artists/designers?I really admire Dustin Yellin’s versatility and craftsmanship, and also Aaron Koblin’s innovation in the digital arts. Many friends and peers are creating art in alternative methods and I am constantly inspired and humbled by their energy.

Q: What tidbit of advice can you give to an emerging artist or designer?To keep following what you believe in. Find the balance between listening to your own voice and the feedback from the world around you. Share your work as much as you can. In the end, the most important things are perseverance and a good attitude! ​

Q: What are you currently working on?Silk sculptures, gowns and wearables for a series of ‘ONE’ events including the ‘World Fashion Parade’ show in fashion week. For the shows I'm putting together an interactive movement piece that expresses the concept of the work and comes closer to the audience. My website is also getting a boost and update of latest work and will soon feature a new way to personalize artwork. I'm very exited about what's to come. ​

Q: Tell us something about yourself that we should know?Despite being a solo artist, and a bit of a loaner inside my mind, I love working with all kinds people and I am constantly talking and collaborating with others. Working as a creative in advertising taught me the power of team work and I'm always on the lookout for like-minded individuals. Above all, I value passion and honesty. ​